Research Methods and Scoping (10/18)
Narrowing the scope
Last week we reviewed the exploratory phase of design research, which helps identify what to work on next. Returning to our phase-based research framework, the next stage is generative research.
Generative Phase
Generative research utilizes an assortment of methods, all aiming to catalyze the creation of ideas and designs. These ideas are centered around the needs and values of users, as opposed to the usability of the system. This phase focuses on empathic methods, participatory design, and concept ideation, keeping in mind that this remains an exploratory and iterative process.
Some methodologies suited for generative research include the use of visual aids, such as collages, mood boards, and diagrams; rapid prototyping, which spans both concept exploration and ideation; cultural probes, which help designers understand social practices, context, and localized cultures; survey research, which may include questionnaires or interviews; and photo or diary studies, to name a few.
Documentation
There are many ways you might choose to structure and document your observations. One method, AEIOU, is a framework that helps organize and code observations under this guiding taxonomy:
• Activities are goal-directed sets of actions. What are the pathways that people take toward the things they want to accomplish?How long do they spend doing something? Who are they doing it with?
• Environments include the entire arena in which activities take place. What describes the atmosphere and function of the context?
• Interactions are between a person and someone or something else, and are the building blocks of activities. What is the nature of routine and special interactions between people, people and objects in their environment, and across distances?
• Objects are the building blocks of the environment, key elements sometimes put to complex or even unintended uses, possibly changing their function, meaning, and context. For example, what are the objects and devices people have in their environments, and how do these relate to their activities?
• Users are the people whose behaviors, preferences, and needs are being observed. Who is present? What are their roles and relationships? What are their values and biases?
Research Protocol
Defining a research protocol involves the careful consideration of many aspects of a design space. Research plans are often defined by specific demographics and stakeholders, temporal and spatial constraints, feasible collection methods, and various other decisions.
Ultimately, it should detail how participant groups will be observed, what questions will be asked, how they will be asked, and what level of guidance or freedom participants will be given during the interaction.
